Agilan's hopes of first ONE Championship title dashed by Askren

AGILAN Thani’s (right) hopes of becoming the first Malaysian to win a ONE Championship title were dashed when Ben Askren of the United States retained his Welterweight World Championship belt via a fight-ending submission just past the two-minute mark of the first round at the ONE: Dynasty of Heroes at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Pic courtesy of onefc.com website

AGILAN Thani’s hopes of becoming the first Malaysian to win a ONE Championship title were dashed when Ben Askren of the United States retained his Welterweight World Championship belt via a fight-ending submission just past the two-minute mark of the first round at the ONE: Dynasty of Heroes at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

Nicknamed the Alligator, Agilan recorded his first ever career loss after Askren caught him in a mounted crucifix and pounded on the Malaysian before taking him to the ground in an arm triangle choke.

Following the fight, Agilan declined to speak to the press as he was feeling unwell and has been instructed to take painkillers after the pain inflicted by Askren, a former US Olympian.

However, Askren believes Agilan will pick himself back up and there’s more of him to come.

“Agilan has a great story, he’s a young kid and this is not the last time we’re going to see him,” said Askren.

Agilan, a product of Monarchy MMA, made his professional debut in December 2013. Since joining ONE Championship, he has been steadily racking up victories, eventually leading to the title fight against Askren.

In the main event showdown, Angela Lee retained her ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship title and belt after overcoming a spirited performance from challenger Isela Nunes.

Angela won by submission in the second round after catching the Brazilian on the ground through an anaconda choke.

“The anaconda choke is one of our favourites, so I was really happy to win with that submission tonight,” said Angela.